Conté (en. Tale)

/kɔ̃.te/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
A fictional narrative that can convey a moral.
The fairy tale often tells magical stories.
Le conte de fées raconte souvent des histoires magiques.
A popular narrative transmitted orally.
He told a tale that had been passed down from his ancestors.
Il a raconté un conte qui avait été hérité de ses ancêtres.
verb
To tell a story or an event.
She loves to tell stories to her children before they sleep.
Elle aime conter des histoires à ses enfants avant de dormir.

Etymology

From Latin 'contus', which means 'narrative' or 'story'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

taking into account
Considering the circumstances.
compte tenu
from tale to tale
Gradually or continuously.
de conte en conte
hold your story
Be careful or beware.
tenez votre conte

Related Words

narrative
A narrative is a narration of events.
récit
legend
A legend is a popular story often based on historical facts.
légende
fable
A fable is a short story illustrating a moral lesson.
fable

Slang Meanings

To tell stories in an exaggerated way.
He always tells stories as if he were a great adventurer.
Il conte tout le temps comme s'il était un grand aventurier.
A way to play with reality in one's narratives.
Don't believe him, he tells stories like an artist.
Ne le crois pas, il conte comme un artiste.